Addictive Nature

Opiates are extremely addictive compounds, which found their way in the underground market. Opium, the plant scientifically known as Papaver somniferum, commonly known as opium poppy, is composed of alkaloids that induce the nervous reaction to the drugs. Some of these active alkaloids in opium include morphine, codeine, papaverine and thebaine.

Tolerance

A person who has been taking opium for some time may quickly develop tolerance and dependence to the drug. Because of this, the would require higher doses of the drug to reach the same effect. This would continue until the person has experience the physical and mental adverse effects of the drug.

History

About 100 years ago, opium was used in folk medicine as a painkiller. It may be swallowed as a solid or drank along with a beverage. It was in the 17th century when opium addiction became a problem. During this time, the drug has already reached the Chinese soil. In the next century, cultivation of opium became prohibited in China.

Opiates are less potent than the crude opium drug. These drugs give the dependent a feeling of warmth, euphoria and well-being. When the effects of the drug start to wear off, hallucinations and nightmares might occur. This would be the time that the person would need to increase his opium consumption to reach the same feeling of euphoria.

Withdrawl

After years of opium addiction, many people report having symptoms for opium withdrawal. This includes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, depression and insomnia. Opium overdose may also occur.

This could cause the depression of the respiratory functions that could be fatal.